Speakers 2026

Elizabeth Smyth

Consultant Medical Oncologist in Upper GI Oncology | United Kingdom

Dr. Elizabeth (Lizzy) Smyth works as a consultant medical oncologist in upper GI oncology at Oxford University NHS Foundation trust with a research focus in oesophagogastric cancer. Her interests are clinical trials and translational research, and she has worked on trial design and management of national and international investigator initiated trials. Dr. Smyth has published more than 200 peer-reviewed manuscripts in her field. She is a member of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Upper GI Faculty, and is the current Director of Education for ESMO. She has previously served as the Chair of the ESMO OncologyPRO Working Group, Chair of the ESMO National Societies Committee and was Subject Editor for the most recent ESMO Gastric Cancer and Oesophageal Cancer Guidelines. Dr. Smyth is the current Chair of the EORTC GI Trials Group (2024-2027). In 2022, Dr. Smyth was a founding member of the UK & Ireland Oesophagogastric Cancer Group (UKIOG) and is a trustee of the UKIOG Charity. She is committed to furthering national and international collaboration in GI trials research and improving outcomes for patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

Erica Mayer

Director of Breast Cancer Clinical Research | USA

Dr. Mayer is a nationally recognized medical oncologist specializing in the care of patients with all stages of breast cancer, and serves as the director of Breast Cancer Clinical Research in the Dana-Farber Breast Oncology Program. Dr. Mayer has led national and global clinical trials designed to answer some of the most relevant questions in breast oncology. Her work has focused on novel agents for breast cancer, with a special interest in identifying strategies to improve the tolerability and feasibility of the newest cancer therapies. She also leads the Dana-Farber Breast Cancer in Pregnancy Program, overseeing the care of and research for of women diagnosed with breast cancer in pregnancy. She is the director of the Advanced Fellowships in Breast Oncology, and mentors students, residents, and fellows at Harvard Medical School and Dana-Farber.

Filippo Pietrantonio

Head of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Unit | Italy

Filippo Pietrantonio is a Medical Oncologist and the Head of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy. He leads a team focused on developing new therapies for gastrointestinal cancers and identifying resistance mechanisms to targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and novel agents. He is Principal Investigator for more than 100 active profit and non-profit trials and is Chair or member of the Steering Committee of several national and international clinical trials. He is an author of more than 400 publications in peer-reviewed journals, he sits on the Board of Directors of the Gruppo Oncologico Noord Ovest (GONO) Foundation – a non-profit organization dedicated to the design and conduct of non-profit trials end he is the Editorial Lead of the GI Section of Annals of Oncology.

Francois Clement-Bidard

Professor of Medicine in the Department of Medical Oncology | France

François-Clément Bidard, MD PhD, is a Professor of Medicine in the Department of Medical Oncology at Institut Curie & UVSQ/Université Paris-Saclay. He is also the co-coordinator of breast cancer research at Institut Curie, the #1 center for breast cancer in France, and, since 2023, the vice-Chair of the French Breast Cancer research group UCBG (Unicancer).

Giuseppe Curigliano

Professor of Medical Oncology | Italy

Giuseppe Curigliano, MD PhD, is Full Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Milano and Chief of the Clinical Division of Early Drug Development at European Institute of Oncology, Milano, Italy. Dr. Curigliano is an expert in the field of advanced drug development in solid tumors, with specific interest on breast cancer. He contributed to the development of many anticancer treatments actually available as standard of care in the treatment of multiple solid tumors. Since 2001 he is tenure-track and full-time cancer specialist at European Institute of Oncology – one of the world’s leading cancer-research institutes and the premier Cancer Center in Italy, third in Europe and 12th globally. He serves as member of the Italian Higher Health Council. Dr. Curigliano served ESMO as Chair of the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee from 2019 to 2023. He is the Editor in Chief of ESMO Open. He was awarded with the first ESO Umberto Veronesi Award in Vienna in 2017 and with the Fellowship of the European Academy of Cancer Sciences in Paris in 2017. Dr Curigliano in 2022 and 2023 was identified as Clarivate™ world’s most influential researchers. Dr Curigliano has contributed to over 670 peer-reviewed publications.

Javier Cortes

Head of IBCC and Co-Director of IOB Madrid | Spain

Dr. Cortés is the Head of the International Breast Cancer Centre (IBCC) in Barcelona and co-director of IOB in Madrid, founding partner of Medica Scientia innovation Research (MedSIR). According to the American Expertscape 2023 ranking, he is considered the world’s leading expert on HER2+ and fourth world oncologist with the greatest expertise in breast cancer and in 2022 and 2023 was identified as Clarivate™ world’s most influential researchers.

Tahani Dweikat

Director of Clinical Research [Interim] Clinical Trials Operations, Research Infusion Unit (CRU), Hematology & Cellular Therapies Research | USA

Tahani Dweikat is an oncology nursing and clinical research leader with over 20 years of healthcare experience. She holds dual master’s degrees: an Executive Master’s in Healthcare Administration (EMHCA) from Zayed University affiliated with University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Adult-Gerontology Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AG-OCNS) from California State University Dominguez Hills. Tahani is nationally certified as an Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN), Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), Evidence-Based Practice Certified (EBP-C). She currently serves as the Director of Clinical Research [Interim] at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center (California, USA), where she oversees high-complexity clinical trials, including early-phase, hematology research, and cellular therapy protocols. In addition, she served as the Clinical Research Nurse Manager for the Clinical Research Unit, leading interdisciplinary teams to optimize trial performance and promote research-integrated patient care.

Tobias Arkenau

CMO and Global Head of Drug Development | United Kingdom

Professor Tobias Arkenau is a highly-respected Consultant Medical Oncologist who works at several HCA Healthcare locations, including Sarah Cannon Research Institute, The Harley Street Clinic, The Princess Grace and The Wellington Hospital. He also has an NHS post at University College London Hospital where he is a Professorial Research Associate. Professor Arkenau is one of the founding Medical Directors of the Sarah Cannon Research Institute UK and is currently serving as Executive Medical Director for SCRI UK. He also has the role of Clinical Lead for the HCA Healthcare UK Cancer Service Line. He currently leads the Sarah Cannon Institute UK as Chief Investigator for a number of clinical trials involving new anti-cancer treatments like immunotherapy and cellular therapy.

Abdul Rehman Zar

Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist | Qatar

Dr. Abdul Rehman Zar is a Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist in Qatar. He serves as Program Director of the Oncology Fellowship and is the lead for Head and Neck oncology, as well as a core member of the Lung and Genitourinary MDTs. He graduated in 1997, holds Arab Board certification in Internal Medicine and MRCP (UK), and completed his Oncology Fellowship in 2009.

Abdulaziz AlJassim

Senior Specialist in Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine | Kuwait

Dr. Abdulaziz AlJassim is a Senior Specialist in Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine within the Thoracic Oncology and Sarcoma Division at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at Kuwait University in 2009. He went on to obtain his MRCP (UK) in Internal Medicine in 2016 and completed the Kuwaiti Board of Internal Medicine (KBIM) in 2017. Dr. AlJassim completed his Medical Oncology residency at the University of Ottawa, Canada, from 2018 to 2020, followed by fellowship training in Thoracic Oncology and Sarcoma at the same institution from 2020 to 2022. He currently serves as a Clinical Tutor at the KIMS Medical Oncology Fellowship Program and is an elected member of the Kuwait Oncology Association. He is also a member of both the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).

Ahmad Al Ghoche

Medical Oncologist and Hematologist | Oman

Dr. Ahmad Ghoche is a certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). He brings extensive experience from his work in tertiary and academic hospital settings, with a strong background in healthcare management, clinical research, and medical education. Dr. Ghoche currently serves at the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Center – UMC in Oman.

Ahmed Saadeddin

Head of Oncology | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Saadeddin is a distinguished Clinical Oncology Consultant with over 30 years of experience in cancer care across Saudi Arabia and internationally. The first Saudi physician awarded the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) in Clinical Oncology (London, 1999), he trained at The Royal Marsden Hospital, one of the world’s leading cancer centers. He has held senior roles at Prince Sultan Military Medical City, King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital, and most recently as Chairman of Oncology at Al Hammadi Hospital. Currently, he leads the Oncology Center at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Riyadh.

Ajit Venniyoor

Senior Consultant Oncology | Oman

Dr Ajit Venniyoor is currently a Senior Consultant in Oncology at National Oncology Center, The Royal Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. He served in the Indian Army for 28 years as Physician and Sr Advisor (Medical Oncology) and he has been working in The Royal Hospital in Sultanate of Oman since 2011. He mase more than 25 publications in peer reviewed journals and a reviewer for over a dozen journals. He is a member ESMO, ICON, ISMPO and NAMS.

Alaaeldin Shablak

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Qatar

Dr. Alaaeldin Shablak is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at Qatar’s National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) with over 12 years of oncology experience, including nine at consultant level. He specializes in gastrointestinal malignancies, focusing on upper GI, hepatobiliary, and colorectal cancers, and serves as lead for the Upper GI multidisciplinary team. Dr. Shablak is Associate Program Director for the NCCCR Oncology Fellowship, contributing to program development, trainee mentorship, and research integration. An active member of the NCCCR Senior Research Committee, he frequently chairs scientific sessions and participates in national and regional oncology conferences.

Amir Abdelazim

Biochemical and Molecular Pathologist | Kuwait

Dr. Amir Abdelazim is a Medical Doctor specializing in Biochemical and Molecular Genetics at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center. A graduate of Zagazig University, Egypt, he holds a Master’s in Clinical and Chemical Pathology and a Fellowship in Hospital Management. Dr. Abdelazim has extensive experience across laboratory departments, with a profound focus on cancer genomics,having analyzed over 20,000 cancer samples using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). His expertise includes human exome analysis and biochemical newborn screening. He remains dedicated to advancing genetic data analysis and providing comprehensive reporting at the forefront of NGS technology.

Ammar Madani

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Qatar

Dr. Ammar Madani is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at National Centre for Cancer Care and Research, Doha QATAR. He graduated from Rajiv Gandhi University, India in 2009. He completed his Internal Medicine Residency and Oncology Fellowship from Hamad Medical Corporation QATAR. He also obtained his MRCP(UK) and MRCP in Medical Oncology and ESMO Certificate. His Field of Interest include Thoracic, GenitoUrinary and Head and Neck Cancers.

Bhawna Sirohi

Medical Director & Breast Medical Oncologist | India

Dr Bhawna Sirohi is the Medical Director at BALCO Medical Centre, Raipur and a Breast Medical Oncologist. She has more than two decades of experience as an oncologist in UK & India. Having qualified as an oncologist from Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, she further completed her training at Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, UK. She has published more than 150 papers in national and international journals and has lectured worldwide. She has been involved in varied capacities to create cancer awareness in India be it through cancer screening camps in various states to the initial setting up of cancer centers in the private or public sector to enabling protocols and procedures for safe care of patients. She is deeply involved with charities like CanSupport and has even set up a charity New India Cancer Charity Initiative or NICCI.

Dorria Salem

Professor of Diagnostic Radiology | Egypt

Dr. Dorria Salem is a professor of diagnostic radiology at Cairo University, since1998 . Founder of women’s imaging unit at the Radiology department at Cairo University since 2003. Founder of the Women’s health outreach program (National screening program) since 2007. She received her M.B.B.CH and MD from Cairo University 1987. Dr. Salem has specialized in breast imaging for the past 20 years. She has been elected to the board of directors of the Egyptian society for women’s imaging and Health, the largest women’s health society in Egypt.

Hamdy Abdul Azim

Professor of Clinical Oncology | Egypt

Dr. Azim is a Professor of Clinical Oncology and immediate past chairman of the Department of Clinical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. He is the president of the Cairo Oncology Center, one of the largest private Cancer centers in the Middle East region. Dr Azim chairs the scientific committee of the NCCN Middle East chapter and is a member of numerous societies, including the ASCO, ASH, ESMO, ASTRO and the European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Society.

Hassan Abol-Enein

Professor of Urology | Egypt

Dr. Hassan Abol-Enein, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Urology at Mansoura University and President of the Egyptian Urological Association (EUA). He also serves as Chairman of the Scientific Office of the Arab Association of Urology (AAU) and Director of the Ethics Committee for Organ Transplantation at Egypt’s Ministry of Health. Formerly Director of the Urology and Nephrology Center at Mansoura University (2004–2012), he has trained over 800 urologists from 76 countries and authored more than 120 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Abol-Enein is a visiting professor at leading institutions in the USA, Europe, and Asia. A recipient of 11 national and international awards, he has pioneered surgical techniques and devices that bear his name and remains a respected lecturer for the European Society of Urological Surgery.

Hazem Assi

Professor of Clinical Medicine | Lebanon

Dr. Assi is a Professor of Clinical Medicine at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), where he joined in 2014 and has been actively involved in research, education, and clinical leadership. He serves as Director of Specialty Clinics and Clinical Services at the Naef K. Basile Cancer Institute and specialises in breast, lung, CNS, skin cancers, and sarcomas. Trained in hematology-oncology in France and Canada, he previously held leadership roles in Canada. A Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians with an EMBA, Dr. Assi is an award-winning educator and has contributed to over 150 publications and more than 100 clinical trials focused on solid tumors.

Hind El Malik

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Qatar

Hind Elmalik is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) at Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, Qatar, with special interest in gyne-oncology. Dr Hind is a Sudanese American.

Ikram Burney

Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology | Oman

Dr Ikram Burney is a Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center, Muscat, Oman, and Director of the Women Health Program. He worked as a consultant in Medical Oncology at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, then at the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman, and now at the SQCCCRC. He is also a visiting faculty at the Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, ICCBS, Karachi University, Karachi, Pakistan.

Kakil Rasul

Senior Consultant in Haematology/Oncology | Qatar

Dr. Kakil Ibrahim Rasul, CABM, FRCP, ESMO, is a Senior Consultant in Haematology/Oncology at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) and an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, Qatar (WCMCQ).

Kumar Prabhash

Professor, Medical Oncology | India

Dr. Kumar is Professor, Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital and has more than two decades of experience. He has published over a hundred research and review articles/papers in journals of national and international repute. He has undertaken over 80 projects as Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator. He is a member of many international and national scientific societies and associations and has delivered talks in several conferences.

Maha Alsindi

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Bahrain

Dr. Maha Alsindi is currently serving as the head of the training department in the Bahrain oncology centee, royal medical services and a medical oncology consultant with a particular interest in breast and gynaecological malignancies. She graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in 2008. She received her Masters of science in Cancer Therapeutics with Honours from Barts Cancer Institute-Queen Mary University and post graduate certification in Translational oncology and clinical research from University College Dublin . She completed her postgraduate training in the Republic of Ireland and breast cancer specialisation by Ulm University. She has participated in many national and international meetings.

Mohamed Ashour

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Kuwait

Dr. Mohamed Ashour Abouagour is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at Kuwait Cancer Control Center and Head of the GU/GYN Oncology Unit. He obtained his Master’s and PhD degrees from Al-Azhar University and holds a Clinical Research Diploma from Harvard University. He is actively involved in clinical research, evidence-based medicine, and medical education, with multiple peer-reviewed publications and memberships in international oncology societies (ESMO, ASCO, ESGO, SITC, IGCS).

Mohsen Mokhtar

Professor of Clinical Oncology | Egypt

Prof. Mohsen Mokhtar is a Professor of Clinical Oncology at Cairo University and currently serves as Head of the Kasr El Aini Oncology Unit. He has contributed to numerous regional and international clinical trials, with research focused on lung, breast, and gynecological cancers, and has authored over 80 publications. Prof. Mokhtar is the Founding President of CANSURVIVE, a non-governmental organization supporting cancer patients across Egypt and the Middle East. He is an active member of ASCO, ESMO, and AMAAC.

Muath Al Nassar

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Kuwait

Dr Muath Al-Nassar is currently a Consultant Medical Oncologist and Head of Thoracic and Sarcoma Unit in Kuwait Cancer Control Center. He completed the medical oncology fellowship from University of Western Ontario, Canada in 2016. He obtained the medical degree from Kuwait University and the Internal residency Training from Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization in 2007.

Nitesh Rohatgi

Senior Director Medical Oncology | India

Dr. Nitesh Rohatgi is a Senior Director Medical Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, who was till recently working at the prestigious London Oncology Clinic (Leaders in Oncology care), Harley Street, London. He is a fellow of the Royal Society of medicine and has much publication to his name. He was trained in medical oncology, palliative medicine, and teenage young adult’s cancers in the United Kingdom, completing his CCT in 2009. He has a specialist interest in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer, and his major research interests lie in understanding mechanisms of endocrine resistance in breast cancer. He is actively involved in facilitating the interface between basic and applied research, and is chief investigator of several phase II/III trials of novel therapeutic approaches in advanced disease, including new endocrine therapies and targeted signal transduction inhibitors.

Ozge Keskin

Consultant Medical Oncologist | Bahrain

Dr. Özge Keskin is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at King Hamad University Hospital, where she has been serving since 2020. She completed her fellowship training at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, one of Türkiye’s leading medical institutions. Dr. Keskin has extensive experience in medical oncology, with particular expertise in cancer immunotherapy and targeted therapies, and is actively involved in advancing comprehensive cancer care and treatment.

Pankaj Chaturvedi

Head Neck Cancer Surgeon | India

Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi is the Director of Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India. He is also the Professor in the Department of Head and Surgery. He is the Director of the International Federation of Head Neck Oncologic Societies, the largest global organization with 70 national societies. He is also the President of the Foundation for Head Neck Oncology that is India’s national society for head neck oncology. He is a member of several Task Forces or committees of Government of India. With 350+ peer reviewed publications and an H Index of 62, he is listed among the top 2% scientists of the world by Stanford University. For oral cancer research, he is listed among top .05% of the scientists. He is the Editor of Textbook of Head a Neck Surgery and Associate Editor of the International Journal of Head and Neck surgery. His major focus of active research is in public health and working with government agencies for this. He has received numerous Awards including Life time achievement award, Association of Maxillofacial surgeons of India; WHO Director General Award; Iconic Leadership Award, BMJ Award for Health Advocacy, Outstanding young Indian Award etc.

Rajiv Kaushal

Professor & Onco-Pathologist | India

Dr. Rajiv Kumar Kaushal is a Professor of Onco-Pathology at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. A recognized expert in Thoracic and Gastro-intestinal Oncopathology, Dr. Kaushal also specializes in Molecular and Digital Pathology. His commitment to comprehensive patient care and cutting-edge treatments has solidified his reputation as a leading professional in Lung Cancer. His extensive expertise is further highlighted by the prestigious Geraldine C. Zeiler fellowship from Mayo Clinics, the Terry Fox Research Grant, and his role on the Board of Directors for the Asian Society of Digital Pathology. With over 150 publications in international and national journals, Dr. Kaushal is a key figure in oncology research and education.

Shailesh Shrikhande

Deputy Director | India

Shailesh V. Shrikhande is a Professor of Surgical Oncology and Head of GI, HPB Surgical Service & Division of Cancer Surgery at the Tata Memorial Center in Mumbai, India. He is also the Deputy Director of Tata Memorial Hospital. He was ranked first in the Master of Surgery examinations of Mumbai University in 1997 and later received specialist training in Pancreatic Research and Pancreatic Surgery at the University of Bern, Switzerland and the University of Heidelberg, Germany. He was the first Asian to receive the Kenneth Warren Fellowship of the International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA) in 2005. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (magna cum laude) by the University of Heidelberg for his original clinical and basic research on chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in 2006.

Shona Nag

Medical Oncologist | India

Dr. Shona Nag is Director of Oncology at Sahyadri-Manipal Hospitals, Pune, and Consultant Breast Oncologist at Ruby Hall Clinic’s Breast Centre. She also serves as Chairperson of the Ethics Committee at BALCO Cancer Hospital, Raipur, and is Managing Trustee of the Nag Foundation, an NGO dedicated to cancer care, research, and education. Dr. Nag completed fellowships in Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital and Bombay Hospital, Mumbai, and at St George Hospital, Sydney. Specializing in breast and gynecological malignancies, she holds an advanced certificate in molecular oncology from Thomas Jefferson Institute, USA, and has led over 75 global clinical trials since 2000.

Sinem Akbas

Consultant Medical Oncology | Bahrain

Dr. Sinem Akbaş is a Medical Oncology Consultant at the Bahrain Oncology Center under the Royal Medical Services in Manama, Bahrain. She previously practiced at Koç University Hospital, the American Hospital, and İstanbul Training and Research Hospital in Türkiye. She completed her subspecialty training in Medical Oncology at Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, where she also earned her medical degree through the English Medicine Program. Dr. Akbaş has extensive experience in medical oncology across leading institutions in Türkiye and Bahrain, with a strong focus on comprehensive cancer care.

Sudeep Gupta

Professor of Medical Oncology | India

Dr. Sudeep Gupta is a Professor of Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India. Dr. Gupta obtained his MBBS degree from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi in 1992. He completed his Postgraduate (MD degree) in internal medicine in 1994.

Suhaila Al Farsi

Consultant Medical Oncologist, Breast Cancer Program | Oman

Dr. Suhaila Al Farsi completed her breast cancer clinical fellowship at McMaster University and now serves as a Consultant Medical Oncologist at the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care & Research Centre in Oman. Dedicated to community outreach, she focuses on cancer prevention and education, emphasizing a multi-disciplinary, patient-centered approach to care. Dr. Al Farsi is active in both local and international conferences and holds memberships with key organizations, including the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

Tarkan Yetisyigi

Consultant and Acting Head of Medical Oncology | Bahrain

Prof. Tarkan Yetişyiğit is a Medical Oncologist with over 15 years of experience in clinical practice, research, and academic leadership. He currently serves as Consultant and Acting Head of Medical Oncology at the Bahrain Oncology Center, Royal Medical Services, where he also leads NHRA accreditation initiatives. He holds a PhD in Basic Oncology and Immunology and is an ESMO Board Certified Oncologist. Prof. Yetişyiğit has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications, with research interests spanning breast and colorectal cancers, immuno-oncology, and precision medicine. He is a frequent speaker at ASCO and ESMO meetings and is committed to advancing evidence-based, collaborative cancer care.

Ahmad Matalkah

Consultant Surgical Oncologist and Breast Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Ahmad Matalkah is a distinguished surgeon in the field of surgery and oncology. As a Consultant Surgical Oncologist and Breast Surgeon at Fatima bint Mubarak Center, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, he brings an unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care to his patients. Dr. Matalkah serves as the Associate Program Director of the General Surgery Residency Program, ensuring the education and training of future surgical leaders. His passion for teaching extends to his roles as an Associate Professor of Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and at Khalifah University.

Ahmad Al Rifai

Consultant Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist; Chair, Department of Medicine | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Ahmad Al-Rifai is a distinguished consultant in hepatology and gastroenterology with over 20 years of experience. He holds a Master’s in Healthcare Ethics and Medical Law from the University of Manchester and a Postgraduate Diploma in Gastroenterology from the UK. A member of the M.R.C.P., B.S.G., and E.A.S.L., Dr. Al-Rifai is recognised for his leadership, clinical excellence, and contributions to advancing patient care and research.

Ahmad Ali Basha

Specialist Haematologist Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Ahmad Ali Basha is a highly respected hematologist‑oncologist with over 30 years of experience in diagnosing and treating both malignant and non‑malignant blood disorders. A graduate of Aleppo University’s Faculty of Medicine in 1986, he completed two years of internal medicine residency before undertaking advanced hematology and hemato‑oncology training at Russia’s leading hematology center in Moscow. Dr. Basha earned his Ph.D. in hematology in 1993. From 1994 to 2013, he served as Professor and Head of the Oncology and Hematology Department at Aleppo University Hospitals.

Aladdin Maaraoui

Consultant and Chief of Medical Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Marraoui is Consultant and Chief of Hematology/Oncology at Gulf International Cancer Center in Abu Dhabi and Clinical Professor at Gulf Medical University, UAE. He previously served as Chief of Hematology/Oncology at Mafraq Hospital for 14 years. He graduated from Faculty of Medicine at Aleppo University/Syria. He did his Internal Medicine residency at Christ Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, and his Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver, Colorado. He is American Board Certified and recertified in Internal medicine in 1992, 2002, 2012 and 2022, in Medical Oncology in 1999,2009 and 2019 and in Hematology in 1999, 2009 and 2019. Dr. Maarraoui authored and co-authored several abstracts and articles on Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer, Thyroid Cancer, lung cancer and Lymphoma focusing on these diseases in UAE.

Alexandra Economacos

Consultant Breast Radiologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Alex is a breast imaging consultant who completed her medical training in South Africa, graduating from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. She became a Fellow of the College of South African Radiologists in 1999 and focused her career on breast imaging. After moving to Dubai in 2008, she established the first dedicated breast imaging unit at Mediclinic City Hospital, pioneering image-guided interventions and leading multidisciplinary team meetings to support best care practices. Dr. Alex is also passionate about teaching and research, actively mentoring students at Mohammed Bin Rashid University and speaking at international conferences.

Aly Abdel Razek

Executive Director | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Abdel Razek, board certified in Radiation Oncology and Pediatrics, graduated from Cairo University and completed his residency at Washington University in St. Louis in 1976. He served as an assistant professor at Washington University and contributed to national oncology committees, including the Southwest Oncology Group and the National Wilms Tumor Committee. A Fellow of the American College of Radiation Oncology, Dr. Razek is the President of Medical Resources International and Executive Director of the Gulf International Cancer Center.

Archana Shetty

Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon & Head of Department | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Archana has more than 20 years’ experience from UK, UAE & India. She was Fully trained in the UK for 15 years, was a Consultant Oncoplastic breast surgeon at Peterborough hospital (UK) and was a Consultant Oncoplastic breast surgeon at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, India. She is also an Ex- Consultant Oncoplastic breast surgery at Narayana Health, Bangalore, India. Dr Archana has been awarded the coveted Donald Mcneill Oncoplastic fellowship by the Association of Breast Surgeons UK. She is also a Fellow of Royal College Of Surgeons, UK, Faculty at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, UK and a Reviewer for the Indian Journal of Surgical Oncology & Dubai Medical Journal. Dr. Archana has done extensive research at University College London on DNA replication markers as prognostic & predictive factors for breast cancer and published papers in multiple peer reviewed journals. She was invited as faculty in numerous international conferences.

Aref Chehal

Consultant Medical Oncologist and Hematologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Aref Chehal, MBCHB, FACP, is a consultant medical oncologist and haematologist at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi. Dr. Chehal has more than 20 years of extensive oncological and haematological consultation experience. He is a recognised and established adjunct professor of medicine at both Khalifa University and Gulf Medical University in the United Arab Emirates.

Arun Karanwal

Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Arun Karanwal is a Specialist Medical Oncologist with over 12 years of experience in cancer care. He completed his DM in Medical Oncology in year 2013 from India 2013 and has since gained extensive clinical experience across leading centers in India. For the past 8 years, he has been practicing in the UAE, currently serving at Prime Hospital, Dubai. Dr. Karanwal is committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered cancer management with expertise in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Ashok Bohra

Consultant General Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Ashok has had experience of surgical training and practice in the United Kingdom since 1995. Prior to that he did his graduation and post-graduation in India. He has been working as a Consultant General, Laparoscopic, Upper GI Surgeon in the UK since 2005 after obtaining CCST. In 2005 he set up the advanced laparoscopic unit in Wigan, UK. He has experience of a vast range of general surgical procedures with special interests in Upper GI surgery with emphasis on advanced laparoscopic procedures including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomies, and mini-bypass; radical oesophageal and gastric cancer surgery, cholecystectomy, hiatus hernia, achalasia, and body wall hernia. He also performs all routine operations/procedures including skin lumps and bumps, minor ano-rectal surgery and endoscopies.

Bassel Jallad

Hematologist and Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Bassel Jallad, MD, CPE is a Staff Physician at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Adjunct Assistant Professor, School of Medicine, at St. Louis University, St Louis, Missouri, USA. Prior to joining Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Dr. Jallad was the Associate Director of Medical Oncology Fellowship Program at St Louis University in St Louis, Missouri and the Medical Director of Medical Oncology Service Line at Blessing Health System in Quincy, Illinois, USA. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Jallad has specialized in managing different cancer types, especially Breast Cancer, and the management of benign and malignant hematological disorders. Dr. Jallad has multiple peer reviewed publications discussing various cancer related topics in highly influential medical journals.

Batool Aboud

Oncology Specialist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Batool Mamdouh Aboud, Specialist Oncologist at Saudi German Hospital Ajman, has over 15 years of experience in oncology, having worked in leading hospitals across Syria and the UAE. She is proficient in managing a wide range of solid tumors and skilled in chemotherapy, hormonal, targeted, and immunotherapy treatments.

Cherian Thampy

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Cherian Thampy is the Head of Department and Consultant in Medical Oncology at NMC Specialty Hospital Abudhabi with over 12 years of experience in the field of Medical Oncology. He previously served as a Consultant at KIMS Cancer Center and as an Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the Cancer Institute, Chennai. His key clinical and academic interests include Breast Oncology, Gastrointestinal Malignancies, Lung Cancer, and Geriatric Oncology. Dr. Cherian completed his DM in Medical Oncology from the prestigious Cancer Institute, Chennai, and was awarded a Gold Medal during his MD in Internal Medicine. He is the UAE Representative for the Asia Pacific Geriatric Oncology Society, has been actively involved in multiple phase III clinical trials, and has published extensively in national and international peer-reviewed journals.

Dalia ElShorbagy

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Dalia Elshorbagy is a highly experienced Consultant Medical Oncologist who has been serving at Dubai Health Authority since 2009. Recently, she has relocated to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). In addition to her clinical role, Dr. Elshorbagy holds the position of Assistant Professor at the Clinical Oncology University Hospital in Egypt. Her expertise and dedication in the field of oncology have made her a valuable asset to the healthcare community.

Deborah Mukherji

Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mukherji joined the American University of Beirut in June 2012, where she is currently an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine. Since October 2022, she has also served as a Consultant Medical Oncologist at Clemenceau Medical Center Dubai. She is an ESMO faculty member for the Genitourinary Tumors (Prostate) group and a panelist for the Advanced Prostate Cancer Consensus Conference (APCCC).

Dima Abdul Jabbar

Staff Physician | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Dima Abdul Jabbar, MD, is a staff physician in the Oncology Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. Before joining Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Dr. Dima served as Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of South Florida, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Florida, US. She has also worked as a Consultant Medical Oncologist at several reputable hospitals in Florida and the UAE. Dr. Dima has extensive experience with different types of chemotherapy and immunotherapy and has managed different kinds of cancers, including breast cancer, melanomas, and colorectal neoplasms.

Faisel Ikram

Consultant Robotic and Laparoscopic Gastrointestinal Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Faisel Ikram joined Mediclinic City Hospital as Consultant General Surgeon/ Surgical Gastroenterologist with special interest in advanced laparoscopic surgery. After completing his surgical training at Johannesburg General Hospital, he took up a consultant position at the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology and was a lecturer at the Wits Medical School, University of Witwatersrand. He completed his sub-speciality training and continued to work as a Senior Consultant in his unit, specialising in surgical oncology. He’s recently been certified as a Robotic General and Gastrointestinal surgeon and practices mainly Robotic surgery now.

Farooq Latif

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Farooq Latif, MD, FRCP (Glasg), FRCP (Edin), FRCR, CCT UK, is currently working as a consultant medical oncologist in Dubai Hospital. After graduation, Dr Farooq completed general internal medicine training in North Yorkshire, UK and attained MRCP in 2007. He then completed clinical oncology training in Liverpool, Merseyside leading to CCT. Dr Farooq became a fellow of Royal college of radiologist (FRCR), faculty of clinical oncology in 2013 and was subsequently awarded fellowship of Royal college of Physicians of Glasgow FRCP (Glasg) and fellowship of Royal college of physicians of Edinburgh FRCP(Edin). He worked as a consultant clinical oncologist in North Wales cancer centre and Royal stoke university hospital, Midlands, UK. He has keen interest in teaching and research and has published in peer-reviewed journals.

Fathi Azribi

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Fathi Azribi took several positions as a consultant Medical Oncologist in the UK and UAE and had been the Chief of the Medical Oncology Division at Tawam Hospital, UAE over the past 5 years. Dr. Fathi also has a special interest in medical education and has established the first Medical Oncology Fellowship Program in the UAE.

Hala Abdellatif

Consultant Medical Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Hala graduated from the University of Alexandria, Faculty of Medicine, Egypt, in 1994 and undertook her specialty qualification in Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy in 1996. She also attained her Master’s degree and PhD in Clinical Oncology in Egypt. She has achieved FRCR in Clinical Oncology from the Royal College of London and she is European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) certified. She is now Assistant Prof. in Oncology and Radiotherapy Department at the University of Alexandria, Egypt. Since 2001 Dr. Hala has been working in the UAE, first at Mafraq Hospital then at Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital since 2008, where she is Head of the Oncology department). Dr. Hala has 30 years of experience in oncology field and all kind of solid tumors .She contributed to numerous research projects and has published articles in international and domestic journals. She also actively participates in numerous conferences and CME activities.

Hassan Shahryar

Consultant Medical Oncologist / Hematologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Hassan Shahryar is a consultant in medical oncology and hematology at the American Hospital Dubai and an adjunct clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at the Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, UAE. He is Diplomate American Board of Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Medical Oncology and Haematology. Dr. Shahryar practices general oncology in a large tertiary care public health system with a special interest in breast tumors. Dr. Shahryar is well published in peer reviewed international journals and is an invited speaker at the national and regional cancer conferences. He is a participant of the ESMO Leaders Generation Programme Asia 2022 and an active member of the ESMO Leadership Development Committee.

Hassan Ghazal

Consultant Medical Oncologist & Consultant Clinical Hematologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr Hassan Ghazal is an American board-certified Consultant Medical Oncologist and a Consultant Clinical hematologist offering more than 3 decades of clinical experience. Dr Hassan Ghazal, after doing his basic medical education in American University of Beirut, moved to US for his residency program in Internal Medicine at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, MD. In 1992, completing the residency program, Dr Hassan Ghazal joined in George Washington university Medical Center for his fellowship in Medical Oncology and completed the same in 1995. He continued in George Washington University Medical Center for another 2 years and obtained his senior fellowship in bone marrow transplantation in the year 1997. He got his US board certification in Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology and in Hematology in the year 1992, 1995,1996 respectively.

Hemant Vadeyar

Gastrointestinal & Liver Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr Hemant Vadeyar is a Gastrointestinal & Liver Surgeon with a particular interest in Diseases of the Liver, Gallbladder, Bile Duct, and Pancreas. He specializes in managing patients with jaundice, gallstones, pancreatitis, liver, gallbladder, bile duct and pancreatic cancers, liver cirrhosis and transplantation. He is presently a Consultant Gastrointestinal, Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgeon at Mediclinic City Hospital, with over 25 years of experience in the field in the UK and India. He is highly experienced in performing complex surgeries for gastrointestinal and liver cancers and in Liver & kidney transplantation. Dr. Hemant specializes in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries for the gastrointestinal tract and the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Husam Marashi

Consultant Clinical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr Husam Marashi is a Consultant Clinical Oncologist based at the Tawam Hospital. He underwent post graduate training at the West of Scotland hospitals and became a consultant in 2015. He developed a special interest in the non-surgical management of Upper gastro-intestinal and Breast malignancies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. He is a principle investigator for many clinical trials and involved in many precision medicine programmes. He is also an active member of the oligometastasis SABR radiotherapy team. Dr Marashi has an active role in medical education/training for clinical oncology trainees in Scotland, and a member of RCR recruitment team. He is a member of the breast cancer MCN advisory board for the West of Scotland.

Jawaher Ansari

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr Jawaher Ansari completed his Clinical Oncology specialist training in Birmingham, UK and worked as a Consultant at the Beatson Cancer Centre in Glasgow, the second largest cancer center in the UK, prior to moving to the Middle East. Dr Ansari has been a principal investigator for several international clinical trials and has authored several peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters. He has a specialist interest in Urology, Breast and Lung cancers.

Kaltar Das

Consultant Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Das is a consultant oncologist in Dubai Academic and Health Corporation (formerly DHA) for more than a decade. He completed his internal medicine fellowship in 2008 and his medical Oncology fellowship in 2011. He continued his clinical and academic excellence and achieved fellowship ship of the American College of Physicians (FACP) and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons (FRCP) Glasgow, UK, made succeed to get specialty certification in Medical Oncology (SCE) from Royal College of Physician UK. He has worked on different positions in Pakistan, Qatar and in UAE. He has been participating as a faculty member in EIOC (formerly UAE-CC) since 12 consecutive years

Khaled Al-Qawasmeh

Clinical Research Nurse | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Khaled Al Qawasmeh is a Clinical Research Nurse Professional, Hematology/Oncology at Tawam Hospital and Vice-President of Emirates Oncology & Hematology Nursing Society. Dr. Al Qawasmeh has published in national and international peer-reviewed journals; his main research interest is in the field of oncology. He is an official reviewer for the prestigious Cancer Nursing Journal and is currently actively involved in the oncology clinical trials at Tawam Hospital and their scientific publication.

Maroun El Khoury

Chief of Cancer Centre, Oncologist / Hematologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Maroun El Khoury is a Consultant Oncologist/ Hematologist at American Hospital in Dubai from September 2010 till Present. He was previously the Director of Cancer Care Center and President of Medical Staff from 2018 to 2020. He was also the Medical Director Of Oncology And Hematology Services And Chief Of Medicine At Great River Health System and was the Hospice Medical Co-Director of Epec (Education In Palliative And End-Of-Life Care) Trainer.

Marwan Ghosn

Consultant Medical Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Professor Marwan Ghosn, MD, holds degrees from Saint Joseph University of Beirut and the University of Paris XI and Gustave Roussy Cancer Institut in France, is previously the long-time Director of the Hematology Oncology Post Graduate Program and Chairman of Hematology Oncology Department at the faculty of Medicine Saint Joseph University of Beirut. Holding also a Master in Hospital and Health Management from ESA, Beirut, and another from the University of Paris VII . He is currently Consultant in Medical Oncology in UAE and in Hotel Dieu De France University Hospital and Clemenceau Medical Center in Beirut. Former President of LSMO, he’s active in ASCO, AACR, ESMO, ASH, EHA, SIOG, AMAAC. He has 300+ articles and numerous communications. Editor in Chief of PAJO, his expertise includes solid tumors, breast cancer, urologic and gastrointestinal cancers, geriatric oncology, and healthcare management and quality.

Mazin Aljabiri

Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist and Head of Gastroenterology and Digestive Diseases | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mazin Rasool Aljabiri, MBChB, FRCP (London), CCST (UK), is a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist and Head of Gastroenterology and Digestive Diseases at Mediclinic Parkview Hospital and Mediclinic Dubai Hills, Dubai. He has over 20 years of international experience, including a substantive Consultant position at a UK teaching hospital. Dr. Aljabiri has performed more than 60,000 advanced endoscopic procedures, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, ERCP, SpyGlass cholangioscopy, EMR/EPMR, ESD, and Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty. He is widely recognized for his expertise in complex pancreato-biliary interventions, early cancer endoscopic resection, inflammatory bowel disease, and hepatology, including post–liver transplant care. He completed advanced ESD training at the National Cancer Centre in Tokyo, Japan, and pioneered several advanced endoscopic therapies in the UAE, including SpyGlass, TIF, STRETTA, GERD-X, ESG, and AI-assisted colonoscopy. His work has contributed to significantly improving adenoma detection rates and colorectal cancer prevention. He is actively involved in research, international conferences, and postgraduate medical education. Dr. Aljabiri is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and a member of the AGA, BSG, BMA, and GMC.

Mohamed Omara

Medical Oncologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Mohamed Omara is a Medical Oncologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Oncology at Dubai Hospital, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dubai. An ESMO-certified Medical Oncologist, he has over 16 years of experience spanning clinical oncology practice, academic teaching, and research. Dr. Omara is the author of 18 PubMed-indexed publications and is an active speaker at regional and international oncology conferences.

Mohanad Diab

Director of Oncology, Hematology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mohanad Diab is a highly experienced Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with over 12 years of expertise in oncology. He earned his MD from Karolinska University, Sweden, and completed certification in Bone Marrow Transplantation at Radiumhemmet. Dr. Diab served as a Consultant Medical Oncologist in Sweden before relocating to the UAE, where he spent eight years as Head of Oncology in a leading Abu Dhabi hospital. Currently at Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, he is recognized for establishing multidisciplinary tumor boards and delivering advanced cancer care using chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy across a wide range of malignancies.

Mona Tareen

Palliative Lead and Director Palliative and Supportive Care Services | United Arab Emirates

 Dr Mona Tareen has completed her Residency in Internal Medicine at University of Chicago Hospitals Followed by a fellowship in geriatric medicine At Rush University Medical Center. She then went on to complete her fellowship in hospice and palliative medicine at Midwest palliative and hospice care center in Chicago Illinois. Her professional affiliations include American Academy of hospice and palliative medicine. She is board certified and has written numerous publications and presentations and palliative medicine. She is completed her masters in cannabis science and therapeutics from University of Maryland(UMB) and is currently enrolled in her PhD program at UMB. Her interests lie and use of medical cannabis as a part of the palliative toolbox specifically in the setting of a terminal illness.She presently heads the Palliative Program at the Cancer center at CCAD.

Noureen Saber

Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Noureen Saber is a Medical Oncologist at Dubai Hospital under Dubai Health, with extensive experience in clinical oncology and cancer care. She has served across several institutions, including Prime Healthcare Group, the Dubai Health Authority, and Polyclinic Family and Specialty Medicine, where she provided specialized oncologic care and patient management. Her background also includes research work with the Cambridge Centre for Innovation and Development in the United Kingdom. With a strong commitment to advancing cancer treatment, Dr. Saber continues to contribute to the field through her clinical expertise, research involvement, and patient-centered approach in oncology practice.

Puja Gaur Khaitan

Professor and Consultant Thoracic Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Khaitan is an American board-certified general and thoracic surgeon specializing in non-cardiac chest surgery, including lung and esophageal cancers, mesothelioma, mediastinal masses, and chest wall tumors. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern and completed general surgery training at Emory University, alongside an NIH-funded research fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Her cardiothoracic training was completed at Harvard Brigham & Women’s Hospital. A highly skilled minimally invasive surgeon, Dr. Khaitan performs thoracoscopic, laparoscopic, robotic, and complex open procedures, and is widely published, internationally invited speaker, and dedicated surgical educator.

Rakesh Rai

Consultant Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Rakesh Rai is a distinguished Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) and Transplant Surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He currently heads the HPB and Transplant Surgery unit at King’s College Hospital London in the UAE. Dr. Rai earned his MBBS from Patna University, MS from the University of Mumbai, and MD from the University of Newcastle. He trained at leading UK institutions, including Royal Free Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and completed a Transplant Surgery Fellowship in the USA. He also trained in living donor liver transplantation in South Korea. Dr. Rai is widely published and frequently invited to speak at international scientific forums, with expertise in liver, kidney, and pancreas transplantation.

Rana Irfan Mahmood

Consultant Radiation Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr Rana Irfan Mahmood is a British-trained clinical oncologist with more than 20 years of experience. He is well known for developing advanced forms of Radiotherapy in several centres across the Middle East and UK. In UAE, he initiated Prostate & Interstitial Cervix Brachytherapy and spatially fractionated Radiotherapy (GRID-SFRT). As an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expert, he is involved in enhancing cancer care in the developing world. He has been awarded a Fellowship of both Royal College of Physicians (FRCP) and Radiologists (FRCR). He has led several landmark trials and extensively published his work in peer-reviewed journals. Dr Rana Mahmood completed specialist clinical oncology training in UK and has been a consultant for last 17 years. In UAE, he is the first to introduce and only practitioner to provide Gynaecological hybrid interstitial brachytherapy and prostate HDR Brachytherapy. He set up interstitial brachytherapy practice in King Faisal Specialist hospital, Riyadh and later at Colchester Hospital University NHS trust to benefit wide population of Essex and Suffolk. He has been principal investigator for several landmark radiotherapy trials including STAMPEDE, RADICALS, CHHiP, PACE, RAIDER and EMBRACE and he has extensively published his work. He had several managerial roles and most recently was clinical director for cancer services across East Suffolk and North Essex (ESNEFT NHS trust). He is associate professor at MBR University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dubai.

Rham Zaki Ahmed

Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Rham Zaki is currently working in Zulekha Hospital, Sharjah as a Medical Oncologist. She was a Lecturer of medical oncology at the Medical Oncology Department at Zagazig University Faculty of Medicine from 2011 to October 2014. She was also an Assistant lecturer at the National Cancer Institute, Cairo University and Faculty of Medicine at Zagazig University from 2004 – 2011. She has worked in many local and private hospitals in Egypt such as: the Cairo National Cancer Institute in Zagazig University Hospital and Al Taesier, Aloubour Hospital.

Roger Gerjy

General Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr Gerjy is the Director of Robotic Surgery at Mediclinic Middle East. He has trained and practised general and colorectal surgery in Sweden and has 20 years of experience in surgery. With his early interest in proctology he published several papers in this topic and accomplished his PhD degree in 2008. He is internationally known for his efforts in robotic and laparoscopic surgery, and is often invited as speaker at international conferences. Dr Gerjy is a faculty member of EARCS (European Academy of Robotic Colorectal Surgery) and also a founding member of the ESCP (European Society of Coloproctology) work group for robotic colorectal training. He has trained surgeons in robotic surgery both in Europe and South Africa, until this date Dr Gerjy has trained surgeons in 44 different hospitals around the world. Dr Gerjy was born in Lebanon but has lived most of his life in Sweden. He speaks fluent English, Arabic and Swedish.

Rolf Ulrich Hartung

Professor and Chief Medical Officer | United Arab Emirates

Rolf Ulrich Hartung has dedicated his career to surgery, education and training, international relations, and active participation in medical conferences. He served as the Head of the Department of Surgery at Rashid Hospital and Dubai Hospital from 2003 to 2014 and later became the Head of Department at BR Medical Suites in Dubai Healthcare City. During this time, he also worked as a consultant and CBD surgeon at Mediclinic, Canadian Hospital, NMC, and Medeor until 2017. He went on to become the Medical Director at Mediclinic City Hospital, followed by his role as Medical Director and Acting CEO of Al Zahra Hospital Dubai from 2020 to 2022. Currently, he serves as the Medical Director of the Human Health Education and Research Foundation in London

Rosemary Wasti

Oncology Certified Nurse | United Arab Emirates

Rosemary Wasti, RN, is the Oncology Nurse Manager at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, where she has played a key role in advancing oncology nursing practice. With over 18 years of leadership experience in the UAE, she is a strong advocate for professional expertise and certification in oncology nursing. Rosemary is an active member of the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) and the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care (ISNCC), contributing to global nursing initiatives. She earned her Master of Science in Healthcare Management in 2016 and will attend the ONS Congress in Denver in April 2025.

Roshan Koshy Jacob

Consultant Medical Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Roshan Koshy Jacob is a Consultant Medical Oncologist with over 10 years of experience in managing hematological and solid malignancies. He adopts a personalized, patient-centred approach to cancer care. Dr. Roshan completed his MBBS from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, followed by MD in General Medicine, DM and DNB in Medical Oncology. He also holds MRCP-SCE certification and has completed specialized oncology training from prestigious institutions, including Harvard Medical School. Having worked at renowned hospitals and research centres, Dr. Roshan has made meaningful contributions to clinical oncology practice and research.

Sara Al Bastaki

Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Sara Al Bastaki is a Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon from the UAE with expertise in complex gastrointestinal, colorectal, abdominal wall, and pelvic floor surgery. She graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and completed visceral surgery training and a three-year colorectal fellowship in Germany and London. Formerly Division Head of General Surgery at SKMC, she is Founder and President of the Emirates Society of Colon & Rectal Surgery and chaired three editions of the Emirates International Colorectal Congress. She is currently a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at Mediclinic City Hospital, Dubai, and Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi.

Sathis Mogan

Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Sathis Mogan is a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, with over 17 years of experience in the UK’s National Health Service. He holds dual CCT accreditation in Gastroenterology and General Internal Medicine from the GMC and is fully JAG accredited in gastroscopy and colonoscopy. Trained in the Southeast Thames (London) rotation, Dr. Mogan has a major interest in pancreatobiliary disease and advanced interventional endoscopy. His expertise includes EUS, ERCP, SpyGlass cholangioscopy, ampullectomy, luminal stenting, large polyp EMR, GI bleed management, and cancer staging, delivering patient-centred care with compassion and precision.

Sonia Otsmane

Consultant Medical Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Sonia Otsmane is a Consultant in Medical Oncology. She earned her Doctor of Medicine in 1994 and completed her post-graduation in Medical Oncology – Hematology in 2004 from Pierre & Marie Curie Oncology Institute, France. Dr. Otsmane is a member of both ESMO & ASCO. Before joining Burjeel, Dr. Otsmane was the Medical Oncologist-Hematologist at Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi and SSMC with Mayo Clinic affiliation Abu Dhabi, UAE with around 20 years of experience, Dr. Otsmane specializes in treating various subtypes of cancer including Genito-urinary Malignancies, Sarcomas, Lung Cancer, Head & Neck Cancer, Lymphomas, Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, and Multiple Myeloma. She also has a special interest in Breast cancer and De-novo research in treatments. She has participated in many national and international conferences and has several publications to her credit. She is also a speaker in multi international expert oncology meetings .

Sukrith Shetty

Specialist General Surgeon (Surgical Oncologist) | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Sukrith is a highly experienced Surgical Oncologist with over 21 years of clinical practice. He completed his MS in General Surgery from Mangalore University and MCh in Surgical Oncology from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore. Dr. Sukrith has extensive expertise in breast, colorectal, and skin cancer surgeries, with a special interest in advanced laparoscopic procedures involving the colon, stomach, gynecological, and adrenal surgeries. He is also skilled in oncoplastic breast surgery and reconstruction. An active member of several professional societies, Dr. Sukrith has contributed widely through international publications and scientific presentations.

Syed Mansoor Hasnain

Consultant Radiation Oncologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Syed Mansoor Hasnain has been working at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain as a Consultant Radiation Oncologist since 2009. He holds dual qualifications: first, he earned his FRCS from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. He then completed his SPR training in Radiation Oncology at St. Luke’s Hospital in Dublin, successfully obtaining his FFR RCSI and CCST from the Faculty of Radiology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Dr. Hasnain has played a leading role in the development and implementation of advanced radiotherapy technologies at Tawam Hospital, including IMRT, IGRT, TomoTherapy, and RapidArc. He was also instrumental in achieving departmental accreditation from both JCI and QUATRO. His special areas of interest include the treatment of haematological malignancies, as well as gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and breast cancers.

Syed Monawer Karim

Consultant in Medical Oncology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Syed Monawer Karim is a Consultant in Medical Oncology with 15 years of clinical experience, including 9 years in oncology. He is UK board-certified with prior experience at Nottingham University Hospital’s NHS Trust. He has worked at leading institutions, including Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. He completed his oncology training in Nottingham and has held academic roles such as Associate College Tutor for the Royal College of Physicians and ESMO (European Society of Medical Oncology) Ambassador. Dr Karim earned his MBBS from Katihar Medical College, India. He holds postgraduate certifications from the University of Edinburgh and University of Nottingham, and has contributed to several clinical trials, national conferences, and academic publications.

Wafaa Ayesh

Consultant Clinical Dietitian & Head of Nutrition | United Arab Emirates

Wafaa Helmi Ayesh, Consultant Clinical Dietitian & Head of Nutrition at Al Tadawi General Hospital, is a leader in clinical nutrition. As President of the Middle Eastern Alliance of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition Congress, she contributes significantly to the field. Wafaa directs the Master’s Degree in Applied Nutrition Program at the University of Sharjah and has a history of service at Dubai Health Authority. With a Master’s in Food Science and Nutrition, she initiated projects like DHA@Home and Tummy Fish. Wafaa, the first Arab recipient of an ESPEN diploma, actively contributes to education, co-founding Sweetkidz Group and receiving awards such as the “Sheikh Hamdan Award” and “Excellence in Healthcare.

Yasin Ahmed

Consultant Surgical Pathologist and Cytopathologist | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Yasin K. Ahmed is a Consultant Surgical Pathologist and Cytopathologist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and the National Reference Laboratory. He previously served as Chief of the Department of Pathology and Consultant Pathologist at the American Hospital Dubai. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Ahmed has also practiced with AmeriPath in Florida, USA, and completed his fellowship at Wayne State University, Detroit. His expertise spans surgical pathology, cytopathology, and diagnostic oncology, with a strong commitment to advancing pathology services and medical education across the UAE and the wider region.

Yasir Akmal

Staff Physician within the General Surgery Department | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Yasir M. Akmal, MBBCh, is a Staff Physician within the General Surgery Department of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Digestive Disease Institute. He is also Program Director of the General Surgery Residency. Prior to joining Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Dr. Akmal was a General and Oncologic Surgeon at Kaiser Permanente, Los Angeles, California. He served as the Associate Program Director of the General Surgery Residency, helped pioneer regional robotic colorectal surgery and launched the Robotic Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Program. He was also awarded the Residency Teaching Award and the Departmental Merit Award.

Yasser Farahat

Senior Consultant of Urology | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Yasser Farahat is a Professor of Urology at Tanta University, Egypt, Clinical Tutor at the University of Edinburgh, UK, and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, UK. He serves as Consultant Urologist at the Ministry of Health and Prevention and Senior Consultant at Sheikh Khalifa General Hospital (SKGH-UAQ), UAE, and is a Fellow of the European Board of Urology (FEBU). He is currently IUCC Co-Chair, President-Elect of the Société Internationale d’Urologie (SIU), Past President of the Urological Association of Asia (UAA), and Executive Director of the Arab Association of Urology (AAU).

Zakir Mohamed

Consultant Colorectal Surgeon & Regional Medical Director | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Zakir K Mohamed is the Regional Medical Director for NMC Dubai and a UK-trained Colorectal Surgeon who brings decades of top-tier medical and leadership experience to the UAE. Currently serving as Vice President of the Emirates Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery, his clinical passion lies in the precise, minimally invasive, and robotic treatment of colorectal cancer, IBD, and proctology. Equipped with a CCT from the Newcastle deanery and prestigious fellowships from the UK and Hong Kong, he previously served as an NHS Consultant and Mediclinic Chief of Staff. He pairs world-class surgical expertise with a highly tuned, human-first approach to patient care.